Effects of xylitol on the absorption of 203Pb in mice and cockerels

The effects of xylitol, a substance recommended as a sugar substitute for special dietary uses, were examined on the intestinal absorption of lead. Two techniques were employed: the in situ ligated intestinal loop approach in cockerels and gastric gavage in mice. Adaptation to high doses of xylitol in drinking water did not appear to affect the intestinal absorption of radiolabeled Pb in chicks. In female mice, xylitol adpatation resulted in increased excretion of Pb 203 in feces, suggesting that the intestinal transit time of Pb was decreased. However, no difference was observed in the Pb 203 transport between adapted and non-adapted male mice.